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F1 Visa Information

F-1 Student Information


F-1 Students:

Do you need a travel signature or a new I-20? Email your DSO to request either, and expect a maximum of five business days to get your new I-20.

  • Undergraduate international students must take at least 3 units per term, 2.25 units of which must be in-person classes.

  • In order to leave the U.S. and return to Roanoke College, students must have a DSO official sign page 2 of the I-20 form for re-entry and carry an unexpired F-1 visa. Travel signatures are valid for one year. OPT travel signatures are valid for six months.

  • International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week at Roanoke College while school is in session. Students will apply for a social security card with the assistance of the International Student Services Office. Weekly work hours depend on the availability of jobs on campus.

  • F-1 international students may be eligible for off-campus work prior to graduation if it is an internship in their field of study AND they are receiving academic credit for the internship. This is called Curricular Practical Training (CPT).  For more information click here.

  • Students who wish to enroll in on-campus internships and research must first consult their DSO to determine if CPT authorization is required.

  • F-1 international students may be eligible for work permission after graduation to work in positions directly related to their major. This is called Optional Practical Training (OPT). 

  • For more information about rules and regulations pertaining to F-1 student status, contact your DSO in the International Student Services Office. 

F-1 students must be familiar with visa and status requirements and be sure to "maintain status" by reading through the pages on the following government websites. It is also necessary to read and understand the I-20 document. 

Study in the States

Immigration and Customs Enforcement